Global strategy on occupational safety and health: Conclusions adopted
by the ...

Global strategy on occupational safety and health: Conclusions adopted
by the International Labour Conference
at its 91st Session, 2003

The Conference Conclusions outline a global strategy on occupational safety and health. They confirm the role of ILO instruments as a central pillar for the promotion of occupational safety
and health. At the same time they also call for integrated action that
better connects the ILO standards with other means of action such as advocacy, awareness raising, knowledge development, management, information dissemination and technical cooperation to maximize impact.
The Conclusions pinpoint the need for tripartite national commitment and national action in fostering a preventive approach and a safety culture which are key to achieving lasting improvements in safety and health at work.

In June 2003, the International Labour Conference discussed the International Labour Organization’s standards-related activities in the area of occupational safety and health. The discussion took place in the context of the tripartite Committee on Occupational Safety and Health comprising 104 Government members, 37 Employer members and 58 Worker members.

Ever since it was founded in 1919, the subject of occupational safety and health has been at the heart of the ILO’s work, including its standards-setting activities. The 2003 discussion attracted a high level of interest among delegates and reflected the importance which ILO constituents continue to attach to the issue of occupational safety and health.

Occupational accidents and diseases cause great human suffering and loss. The economic cost is high. Yet public awareness of occupational safety and health tends to be low. All too frequently it does not get the priority it merits. This must change and action needs to be stimulated and accelerated nationally and internationally.